Nestled in a scenic valley of the Boston Mountain Range of the Ozark Mountains, this state park offers outdoor adventures including camping, fishing, kayaking, swimming, mountain biking, hiking, and nature study. For backpackers, the park serves as the western terminus of the 165-mile Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail.

Located on the western side of 1,400-acre Lake Fort Smith, this state park features all new facilities including campsites [20 Class AAA and 10 Class B], a group lodge with kitchenette that can accommodate up to 32 persons (16 in each wing), picnic sites, a pavilion, 2,660-square-foot swimming pool with adjacent wading pool and a splash pad, marina with boat rentals, double lane boat launch ramp, hiking trails, playground, and an 8,000-square-foot visitor center with exhibits, meeting/classroom, and an outdoor patio featuring a native stone, wood-burning fireplace and a view towards the lake.

Description: On May 21, 2008 the first 5.5 miles of the 165-mile Ozark Highland Trail was re-opened at Lake Fort Smith State Park. This newly constructed trail skirts the shoreline of Lake Fort Smith along the western and northern sides and reconnects at Jack Creek. Lake Fort Smith State Park will once again be the western terminus of the Ozark Highland Trail. This trailhead begins at the visitor center of the newly opened park. This backpacking trail, heralded as one of the most scenic in the nation, begins by skirting Lake Fort Smith, and then enters the Ozark National Forest where it takes the hiker across hills and hollows, crevices, bluffs, and past numerous waterfalls.

Location: Eight miles north of Mountainburg on U.S. 71. Trail begins at the visitor center

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews

April 15A Great Family Place by Happy Camper

It is a wonderful place to take your family, grandchildren. We have camped there many times. Full hookups, water, sewer, etc...The pool is wonderful, the children can play on playground equipment at the picnic area if desired or hike or there are lots of educational things planned at the Welcome Center. The best showers/restrooms and very clean. Hard to beat this beautiful place. My grandchildren never want to leave.

February 24Great Place for Family by Hall Family

We LOVE Lake Ft. Smith. The pool is wonderful, but it would be nice if guests staying in the park were given a discount. All of the park is extremely clean. Full hook-ups and paved sites are great. Lots to do.

September 13Amazing

The state park @ Lake Ft Smith is absolutely amazing! Everyone who loves the outdoors should go. The only problem is the directions given on the website are terrible. Although all signs on I -540 say get off at Mountainburg, that is a waste of time. The best way to go is to take the Chester Exit, then go east about 1/2 mile to highway 71, then go north(left) about 2miles to the entrance of the park. This will save you 10-15 minutes.

June 22Not kid friendly by M.Fisher

Park needs better play area and bicycle area. Area by pool needs shade. Not for groups with kids, it is as senic as the whole boston mtn. Area .

Camp in this 1 bedroom, 1 bath travel trailer. Parked in a peaceful setting just 10 miles from Devil's Den State Park, 20 miles from U of A Razorback Stadium. See web site for pictures but call for reservations. Phone 479-761-3604